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Browse our 3 legal questions about Employment Rights in United States and the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.
Employment rights in Des Moines, as in many parts of the United States, are governed by several federal, state, and local laws. These laws cover a range of rights for employees, such as discrimination protection, wage and hour laws, workplace safety regulations, and rights to privacy. They aim to protect employees from unfair treatment at the workplace and ensure that employers comply with labor standards.
You may need an employment lawyer if you believe your rights have been violated at work. Common situations that may require legal help include wrongful termination, workplace discrimination, wages and overtime issues, whistleblower retaliation, and issues related to employee benefits. In these cases, an experienced employment attorney can guide you through the process, advocate on your behalf, and ensure that your rights are being protected.
In Des Moines, sick leave policies and job-protected leave for families and medical emergencies are regulated under local laws. The city follows the guidelines set by the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) for overtime pay, and minimum wage laws. The Civil Rights Act of 1964, as well as Iowa state laws, render workplace discrimination illegal on the basis of gender, race, religion, disability, or nationality. The Des Moines Human Rights Commission actively enforces laws against workplace discrimination.
Workplace discrimination occurs when an employee or job applicant is treated unfavorably due to their race, gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy, age, disability, religion or national origin. It's also discriminatory to treat someone unfairly due to their association with an individual of a particular race, religion or other protected characteristic.
Iowa state law does not require employers to provide paid sick leave, but some employers may choose to offer it as a part of their employee benefits package.
Iowa is an "at-will" employment state, meaning that your employer can generally terminate your employment without cause. However, they cannot fire you for a discriminatory reason that violates federal or state laws.
If you believe you have been subjected to discriminatory practices, it is advisable to contact an employment rights lawyer immediately. You can also file a complaint with the Des Moines Human Rights Commission.
The current minimum wage in Des Moines is the same as the federal wage rate set at $7.25 per hour as of 2021.
The Iowa Workforce Development website is an excellent resource for information about employment law in the state. The Des Moines Human Rights Commission can also provide resources and assistance for those dealing with discrimination. National resources include the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the Department of Labor website.
If you believe your rights as an employee have been violated, it is recommended to consult with an employment lawyer right away. They can guide you through the process of filing a complaint or lawsuit, if necessary. Additionally, you may contact Des Moines Human Rights Commission for any concerns related to discrimination and injustice at the workplace.
